Somalia

Mogadishu (AX) – In the wake of a tragic helicopter crash in Mogadishu that claimed the lives of five peacekeepers and left six others injured, the Ugandan military has initiated an investigation to ascertain the cause of this calamity. This was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) on Thursday, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the urgency that comes with it. Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye, the voice behind the UPDF, spoke candidly about the ongoing inquiry. “This is…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a world increasingly defined by digital identity, Somalia's Immigration and Citizenship Agency finds itself at a crossroads. As of now, the nation has yet to fully implement its newly introduced national identity card as a requirement for passport applications. Why, you might wonder? The answer lies within a maze of technical and institutional coordination challenges that still need to be resolved. Although Somalia proudly launched its digital national ID system in 2022 under the auspices of the…

The Courage to Change: A Former Al-Shabab Member's Journey to Safety Mogadishu (AX) — In a world often rife with fear and violence, the act of renouncing extremist beliefs takes immense courage. Recently, a former member of Al-Shabab, known as Mohamed Hussein Mohamed, made a remarkable decision to surrender to the Somali National Army. His choice stems from a deep disillusionment with the group's violent tactics and a profound concern for the suffering it causes among civilians, religious leaders, and government…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant stride toward enhancing its educational framework, Somalia's federal cabinet recently granted approval for the formation of a 15-member National Higher Education Committee. This initiative, announced by the Ministry of Education, emerges as a pivotal effort aimed at reforming the oversight and governance of the nation’s university system. The decision was made during the weekly meeting of the Council of Ministers, led by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre. The committee was established as a…

Hormuud Salaam Foundation Triumphs with Prestigious Social Impact Recognition at London Summit LONDON, UK – Achievements rooted deeply in human spirit seldom go unnoticed. In a ceremonious event that echoed with stories of grit and innovation, the Hormuud Salaam Foundation, Somalia’s beacon of hope and philanthropy, proudly received the Africa Social Impact Leadership Award. This distinguished accolade was part of the 15th African Business Leadership Awards at the ALM Africa Summit 2025, held in the illustrious…

In today’s complex economic landscape, low reserves have emerged as a significant vulnerability for many African nations, impacting them both economically and politically. It raises important questions: How do these nations navigate such precarious circumstances? What are the broader implications for their populations? The fragility of these economies is reflected in various international rankings, including the Global Firepower Index. This index evaluates the strength of nations by measuring military…

Somalia’s Federal Government Faces Criticism Over Federalism Approach AXADLE, Somalia - In the intricate political landscape of Somalia, the Federal Government finds itself under intense scrutiny. Accusations are mounting that it is eroding the very fabric of federalism, a concept many view as a cornerstone for national stability. This sentiment isn't new, but President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is now at the center of the criticism, with many pointing fingers at his leadership.…

North Western State of Somalia’s Minister of Finance: A Leader for a New Era In the bustling heart of London, beneath the glimmering lights of the 15th African Leadership Summit, a significant accolade was conferred upon an exceptional leader. On Wednesday, Somalia's own Minister of Finance, Biihi Iman Egeh, was honored as the African Finance Minister of the Year for 2025 by the prestigious African Leadership Magazine (ALM). This recognition is not merely a title; it is a testament to Egeh’s unyielding commitment to…

U.S. Strategic Foreign Policy in West Africa In an unexpected diplomatic move, U.S. President Donald Trump has convened a lunch meeting with five leaders from West Africa on a seemingly ordinary Wednesday. Why such sudden interest in a region known more for its untapped potential than its international clout? Could it be a response to the reverberations caused by recent cuts to foreign aid? A compelling study in the Lancet medical journal casts a stark light on the repercussions of Trump’s policy shifts. Does anyone…

Heartbreak at Jaalle Siyaad: A Fresh Blow from Al-Shabaab MOGADISHU, Somalia - The serenity of the morning was shattered as tragedy struck near the Jaalle Siyaad Military Academy. Four brave soldiers from the Somali National Army (SNA) succumbed to an assault led by the militant group Al-Shabaab—an attack that echoes past tragedies within these very grounds. Witness accounts paint a picture of sudden chaos and devastation, revealing that numerous others were injured in the wake of this suicide bombing. The…